Offensive Weapons And Sudden Death

Question 1

What does disabling substance mean under section 202A of the Crimes Act?

Answer 1

Any anaesthetising or other substance produced for the use of disabling persons, or intended by any person having it with them for such use.

A defence for possession is that they prove they did not intend to use the offensive weapon/disabling substance for an offence involving bodily injury or the threat or fear of violence

Question 2

Who is qualified to verify a death?

Answer 2

1. Registered medical practitioner
2. Nurse - practitioner, registered or enrolled
3. Registered midwife
4. Intensive care paramedic
5. Paramedic
6. Emergency medical technician

The deceased can not leave police control until a verification of death has been completed

Question 3

What are some forms of identifying a deceased person if visual ID isn’t possible?

Answer 3

1. Fingerprints (AFIS)
2. Medical examination (scars, birthmarks, x-rays, surgical wounds, amputations, tattoos, implants etc)
3. Personal effects from a full scene examination

Question 4

Who must you update regarding the enquires made to identifying a deceased when visual ID isn’t available?

Answer 4

The duty coroner must be updated on the progress of the identification

Question 5

What is the definition of immediate family?

Answer 5

A member of the victims family or culturally recognised family group who is in a close relationship with the victim at the time of offence

Question 6

What can be included with a victim impact statement?

Answer 6

Photographs, drawings or other visual representations provided by the victim